Frequently Asked Questions

Applicants must have a minimum of 54 (preferably 60) eligible credits completed including ENGL 1100 Intro to University Writing, SOCW 2060 Intro to Social Work Practice, and SOCW 2120 Intro to Social Welfare.

While there are several ways to meet the admission requirements, the two most common are:

• Complete the Human Service Work Diploma (HUMS) at TRU or an approved human service or social worker diploma at another institution
• Complete 54 to 60 eligible credits of general university studies (i.e. humanities/social science/science) including ENGL 1100, SOCW 2060 and SOCW 2120. To view a list of eligible credits, please visit The Approved General University Studies Credit.

Admission requirements must be completed or in progress when applying. If the admission requirement courses are listed on your transcript, your application will be considered. Applicants will have until June 30 to confirm all requirements have been met to begin the program in September.

While some older credits might be accepted, if some of the courses are considered foundational to your success in the program, you may be asked to repeat them to gain current knowledge. Contact [email protected] to discuss your situation.

Math and science electives are not required but can be applied for credit in the BSW program.

Applicants who have completed credit at another post-secondary institution can use the BC Transfer Guide and the list of approved electives to determine if the credit completed can be applied in the Bachelor of Social Work. If the courses are not listed in the transfer credit guide, applicants may email [email protected] for clarification.

Thompson Rivers University does not charge a fee to transfer credit from another eligible institution.

Please refer to the list of approved electives to select courses that will help you meet the admission requirements. If you still have questions, email [email protected].

Information about submitting transcripts can be found at Submit Your Transcript or Documents. The admission statement can be submitted through the form.

No volunteer or work experience is required. You are welcome to include relevant information from work experience/volunteer experience when responding to the admission statement questions.

The early admission deadline is Jan. 15. Applications will be accepted until March 31.

The Bachelor of Social Work program is a 120-credit program. The first 54-60 credits are completed prior to admission to the program and the remaining 60-66 credits are completed after admission. It will take a minimum of four semesters (fall, winter, fall, winter) to complete courses once admitted. It is possible to take more than four semesters if you would like to reduce your semester course loads.

BSW students should not connect with potential practicum placement agencies. Students will submit an application for practicum that identifies their social work areas of interest and learning objectives. The Field Education Coordinator will endeavor to make the best match between the learning objectives of the student and the learning opportunities offered by the agencies.

There is a wide array of practicum placements available. Students have been placed in practicums in agencies that focus on:

• Indigenous community support
• Children and family support
• Youth mentoring
• Mental health
• Substance use

You can find career information for social work in British Columbia at WorkBC and for Canada at the Job Bank.